Shopping for Athletic Shoes

Treat your feet well if you're going to be exercising, making sure you find a pair of well-fitted, supportive shoes.

The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society advises:

• Shop at a specialty store and take advantage of its expertise.
• Try on shoes at the end of the day or after a run, when your feet are largest. Wear the socks you will wear while exercising.
• Shoes should be comfortable from the start, and you should be able to easily move your toes.
• Lace shoes properly when trying them on. Walk or run a few steps in them, making sure that the shoes firmly grip your heels.
• Look for a sport-specific shoe if you plan to play a particular sport.